CALLAGHAN, DANIEL JUDSON - Medal of Honor Recipient

Rank and organization: Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy.

Birth: 26 July 1892,
San Francisco, Calif.

Appointed from: California.

Entered service at: Oakland,
Calif.

Other Navy awards: Distinguished Service Medal.

Citation: For extraordinary
heroism and conspicuous intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty during
action against enemy Japanese forces off Savo Island on the night of 12-13
November 1942. Although out-balanced in strength and numbers by a desperate
and determined enemy, Rear Adm. Callaghan, with ingenious tactical skill
and superb coordination of the units under his command, led his forces
into battle against tremendous odds, thereby contributing decisively to
the rout of a powerful invasion fleet, and to the consequent frustration
of a formidable Japanese offensive. While faithfully directing close-range
operations in the face of furious bombardment by superior enemy fire power,
he was killed on the bridge of his flagship. His courageous initiative,
inspiring leadership, and judicious foresight in a crisis of grave responsibility
were in keeping with the finest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He
gallantly gave his life in the defense of his country.

This data was extracted from the Committee on Veterans' Affairs, U.S. Senate, Medal of Honor Recipients: 1863-1973 (Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1973)